Cyclists united for the climate with a cycle ride from Azerbaijan to Brazil

A group of cyclists is embarking on a journey that will take them from Baku to Belem to attend Cop30. The goal is to connect Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, last year's Cop29 venue, to Belem, Brazil, this year's Cop venue. The race will have different starting points in different continents between Asia, Europe, Africa and the Americas, will cross different territories and different cities, rural regions and will also sail to Brazil, promoting climate action and sustainable mobility.

Each participant will carry a symbolic banner. Not only that. They will bring ten proposals for a cycling revolution: education on sustainable mobility; safe cycling routes; incentives for cargo bikes; car-free zones; promoting the economic benefits of cycling; developing the economic sector associated with cycling; organising cycling events; implementing indicators to measure and monitor satisfaction; bicycle parking; and reducing car traffic. During the journey, participants will engage with local communities, asking administrators to make at least three concrete commitments to promote cycling by 2030. These interactions aim to create a global mosaic of city actions, linking local concerns to international climate goals.

From 27 July to 12 August, the caravan entered Italy - passing through Gorizia, Udine, Pordenone, Treviso, Padua, Ferrara, Bologna, Florence, the Ligurian coast and many other cities - welcomed by the associations that made it all possible thanks to the coordination of Jacopo Bardi of Bycs and the active support of numerous local and regional Fiab sections. From the Friuli border to the French border, public events, meetings with administrations and convivial moments of confrontation took place at each stage. But Italy does not seem to be ready to accept the proposals they will present at the Cop30, according to Enea data in the first part of 2025 Italy even increased its Co2 emissions compared to last year.

Belém represents a privileged entry point to the Amazon Rainforest, a territory that is essential for the planet's climatic balance but today is seriously compromised by deforestation. The arrival by bicycle in this city is intended to draw attention to the need to defend this unique environment, emphasising sustainable practices that protect both biodiversity and the rights of indigenous peoples.